The grounds of the Royal Academy were buzzing with excitement as people from across the kingdom gathered for the Annual Knight Exhibition, an event that showcased the finest students in the academy's final year. Crowds lined every available space, watching eagerly from the stands and grassy fields as family, friends, and nobility alike turned out for the spectacle.
Near the center, where the viewing platform stood, banners bearing the academy's emblem waved proudly in the breeze, and the scent of food drifted from the food stalls, mingling with the earthy aroma of trampled grass.
Behind the main building, the final-year students gathered, some were talking in nervous whispers, while others stood silently, their hands tightening, waiting for the commander to speak. Commander Elijah, approached with his usual calm yet intense demeanor.
"Today is the day you've all been training for!" He said, his voice carrying the weight of both authority and encouragement. "The royal family is on their way as we speak, and they're here to see the best this year has to offer. This isn't just about showing off your abilities, but about showing the kingdom what kind of knights you will become!"
A ripple of energy passed through the students, but then he added, "And remember, the first, second, third, and fourth years will be watching as well. Make sure to set an example for your juniors!"
"Seriously?! They're watching us too?" Mike exclaimed, his voice rising in disbelief.
"Don't worry, Mike." David replied, trying to soothe his friend's nerves. "It'll be great for them to see what they'll face in the future."
"Prepare yourselves; we're moving out!" the commander's voice rang out, sharp and unwavering. At his call, the students tightened their ranks, shoulders squared, and began their march forward, boots hitting the ground in disciplined unison, each step echoing with a mix of resolve and trepidation.
Just then, Jason, James, and Grandpa Mark arrived, pushing a large cart laden with freshly baked pastries. The warm, sweet scent wafted through the air, a beacon for hungry spectators.
"You know what to do, my son." Mark said with a wink.
Jason inhaled deeply, his face lighting up with determination. "Get your cookies here! Freshly baked and sweet!" he shouted, his voice carrying over the crowd.
Instantly, the crowd turned toward them, noses twitching as they caught the scent, and within moments, they surged forward, eagerly buying up treats.
"Wow, that was quicker than I expected." James marveled.
"That's just how it is. No one can resist the scent of baked cookies and bread." Jason said confidently, a grin on his face.
As laughter and chatter filled the academy grounds, the royal family arrived, silence sweeping over the crowd like a wave. Everyone bowed their heads in reverence as King Arthur and his five royal counselors made their way through the sea of faces, taking their seats at an elevated dais that overlooked the festivities.
King Arthur raised his hand in greeting, a warm smile spreading across his face. "I'm glad to see you all here! Let's have a wonderful time today!"
The crowd responded in unison, "Thank you, Your Majesty! You too!"
Mike, scanning the royal family, suddenly frowned. "Hey, wait a minute. Where's the princess?"
"Oh, I guess she didn't come," David shrugged.
"Seriously?! I wanted to show off in front of her!" Mike's disappointment was palpable, and his friends patted him on the shoulder in sympathy.
"Maybe she's sick?" Ben suggested, trying to lift Mike's spirits.
Beatrix, overhearing their conversation, shot Mike a disapproving look. "This is a significant moment, and you're worried about impressing the princess? Focus on the task at hand!" She said with a haughty air before turning on her heel.
Mike glared after her, frustration bubbling inside. "Just because she's the commander's daughter doesn't mean she can act so... superior!"
"Relax, Mike." Frank interjected calmly. "You know how she can be. Don't let her get to you."
The Commander stepped forward, his presence commanding attention. "Your Majesty, and our great counselors, we are honored by your presence. Today, we'll be showcasing our final-year students and their progress."
As the students approached the royal family, bowing respectfully, King Arthur's warm gaze met theirs. "Bless you all! Put on a good show for us, and we wish you the very best of luck!"
"Thank you, Your Majesty! May you live long!" they chorused, straightening as the Commander continued. "The first challenge is a test of endurance and stamina! Each student will race around the academy grounds and return to this very spot. Captains, you will oversee and ensure the integrity of the race!"
The students exchanged glances, while the captains took their positions, eyes sharp and ready. "Let's do our best, everyone!" Cynthia called confidently.
"Yeah, we got this!" they echoed, determination etched on their faces.
With a loud drumbeat, the race began. The crowd erupted in cheers, voices blending into a roaring wave of support.
"Go, Adam!" Jason shouted, his voice ringing above the din.
Adam, his heart pounding with excitement, surged ahead. All the people begin to discuss with each other, wondering who will be the first to arrive back.
Twenty minutes later, the students began returning, sweat-soaked and breathing heavily, their faces flushed with exertion. The crowd erupted into cheers as Adam emerged from around the last bend, his strides strong and determined despite his labored breathing. He crossed the finish line with a triumphant smile.
Moments later, Beatrix Griffin appeared, her expression fierce and focused as she claimed second place, barely a step behind. She slowed, nodding to Adam in acknowledgment, her competitive spirit unmistakable.
Then came Franklin Hills, his pace steady but powerful, securing a proud third place. The final results were announced, and a wave of applause washed over the academy grounds, echoing the students' hard-won achievements. Each finisher was celebrated, but it was clear-Adam had taken the victory, his name now whispered with admiration throughout the crowd.
"That's my boy!" Grandpa Mark yelled, his pride echoing across the grounds.
"Adam being the best as expected." James remarked with a knowing grin.
Jason offered Adam a warm smile, and after a brief pause, Adam's lips curved into a matching grin, the silent exchange conveying more than words could express.
The Commander stepped forward again. "For our next event, the female students will perform archery! As you can see, five targets have been set. They must shoot their arrows true!"
The female students lined up, each taking their turn. One by one, they released their arrows, but few struck the targets perfectly. When it was Beatrix's turn, she hit all the targets with remarkable precision, drawing gasps of admiration from the crowd.
"Wow, she nailed it!" Ben exclaimed.
"Shouldn't be a surprise. She's the Commander's daughter, after all." Mike commented, trying to downplay her achievement.
"Yeah, but can Cynthia really top that?" David asked, his skepticism evident.
"Don't worry, she'll be fine," Adam reassured, a glimmer of faith in his eyes.
As Cynthia stepped up, she felt the weight of everyone's expectations. "Can I... really do this?" She thought, her heart racing in her chest.
But then, from the crowd, Adam's voice rang out, clear and unwavering. "You can do this, Cynthia! I believe in you!" The other students echoed their support, igniting a spark of confidence within her.
Cynthia glanced at Adam, a blush tinting her cheeks, but she shook off her nerves, her expression shifting to one of fierce determination. She aimed, took a deep breath, and let her arrows fly. One by one, they pierced through Beatrice's arrows and hit the target dead center. The crowd erupted in applause.
"Oh, my... that was extraordinary!" the King exclaimed, his voice rich with astonishment. Even his seasoned counselors, usually stoic and reserved, could not hide their awe, each one nodding in quiet, appreciative approval.
Cynthia flashed a playful wink at Adam, her heart soaring as he returned her smile with pride.
Beatrix watching from the sidelines, felt a twinge of jealousy but couldn't help but admire Cynthia's skill. The atmosphere was electric, the camaraderie among the students palpable.
Cynthia turned her gaze toward the guys as they lifted her high, their voices rising in jubilant praise. She felt the strength of their hands beneath her, a rush of warmth spreading through her as their admiration wrapped around her like a mantle.
The Commander took the stage again, his voice booming. "As you can see, my lords, our students are incredibly talented and skilled. Now, the exhibition will commence after a short break!"
As the students retreated to their tents, excitement pulsed through the camp like a heartbeat. Cynthia, still riding the thrill of her archery performance, walked toward her tent, savoring the coolness of the breeze on her flushed cheeks. Just as she reached her tent, she was stopped by Victor.
"Hey, Cynthia. You were... amazing back there." He said, his voice soft yet sincere. Victor Bert, with his dark hair partially veiling one eye and clad in somber attire, often struck others as distant.
"Thanks, Vic." Cynthia replied, smiling warmly. "I'll admit, I was nervous with everyone watching. But you guys cheered me on, and that gave me courage."
Victor returned her smile, a rare warmth lighting up his face. "Glad to hear it. Let's go grab something to drink before the next event."
But before they could move, a figure in deep blue robes, adorned with silver embroidery, appeared nearby-Counselor Charles Hills. His presence commanded silence and respect, and as he strode purposefully across the grounds, every conversation stilled, eyes following his approach.
He stopped in front of Victor and Cynthia, his gaze steady and penetrating. "Good morning, Counselor Charles." Victor greeted respectfully. "To what do we owe the honor?"
The counselor nodded, his voice as calm and measured as his movements. "I came to commend you students for your efforts today. The other counselors are also pleased to see such dedication and talent in our future knights."
Cynthia and Victor both bowed, responding in unison, "Thank you, sir."
Charles's gaze shifted to Cynthia. "I'll also have a word with Miss Cynthia-alone, if you will." His voice held an undertone of authority that brooked no objection.
Cynthia's smile faded as she exchanged a quick glance with Victor. "Of course, sir. I'll be right there." She said, following him without another word.
As she disappeared around the corner with Counselor Charles, Victor stood rooted to the spot, a furrow of worry etched onto his brow.
Meanwhile, Mike and the others had been watching from a distance, curiosity and intrigue visible on their faces.
"Hmmm." Mike murmured, crossing his arms as he observed them. "Hey Frank, why does your grandfather always talk to Cynthia alone a lot? Ever wondered about that?"
Frank shrugged, though his own curiosity was evident. "I'm not entirely sure, honestly. Last time I asked, he just mentioned that she is a close student of his at the library."
"Oh, that's right! Your grandfather does own the kingdom's grand library, doesn't he?" Ben interjected, nodding thoughtfully.
Mike's eyes twinkled mischievously. "Who knows? Maybe something... else is going on." He said with a suggestive grin.
David rolled his eyes and, without warning, smacked Mike on the back of the head. "Honestly, you've got to clear that mind of yours."
Rubbing his head, Mike laughed sheepishly. "Alright, alright, I was only joking!"
The others burst out laughing, the tension dissolving as their banter brought them back to the camaraderie they shared.